Level 1 Te Ao Haka
L1HAKA Course Description Recommended Prior LearningThis is an open-entry course – all are welcome. No previous experience is needed, just a willingness to learn, participate, and connect with te ao Māori.
Te Ao Haka is more than just performance – it's a powerful way for our tamariki and rangatahi to connect deeply with te ao Māori through kapa haka, language, tikanga, and storytelling. Rooted in the wisdom of our ancestors, yet open to new expressions, Te Ao Haka evolves with each generation.
This course nurtures pride in culture, language and identity, while celebrating the unique traditions of iwi, hapū, and whānau. Through haka and wānanga, ākonga explore who they are, where they come from, and where they’re heading. It’s a space where history meets creativity, where fun meets purpose, and where every learner is empowered to grow and thrive – both on the stage and in life.
Te Ao Haka places whānau, marae and community at the heart of learning. By weaving together the past, present and future, it fosters a strong sense of belonging and inspires ākonga to reach their full potential – with mana, with joy, and with pride.
Note: Students are unable to select Tikanga and Te Ao Haka, as these courses are taught concurrently in a combined class. Students will have a choice of mixing Tikanga and Te Ao Haka Unit/Achievement Standards.
Course Overview
What is taught in courses varies from year to year. This course could include:
This course introduces ākonga to the rich and vibrant world of Te Ao Haka. At Level 1, students begin their journey by exploring the foundations of Māori performing arts, gaining a deep understanding of its purpose, history, and cultural significance.
Ākonga will:
Learn key performance skills and techniques that underpin Te Ao Haka
Explore traditional and contemporary haka narratives, styles, and storytelling forms
Discover the core features, elements, and categories that define this unique art form
Participate in learning a range of kapa haka disciplines, including:
- Mōteatea – traditional chant
- Whakaeke – entrance performance
- Waiata ā ringa – action song
- Haka – posture dance
- Whakawātea – exit performance
This course supports students to develop confidence, creativity and cultural understanding while embracing the values of whakapapa, whanaungatanga, and mana motuhake. It is a space for expression, connection, and growth – where every learner can stand tall in who they are and where they come from.
Assessment Information
All External Assessments are provided as Common Assessment Tasks during the year, not at the end of the year.
There are normally two opportunities-one in June, one in September.
There is one practical-based assessment.
There is one power-point/google slide assessment.
This is an Acheivement Standardar course.
Artistic Director, Dancer, Entertainer, Musician, Radio Presenter, Model, Television Presenter, Actor, Historian, Artist, Outdoor Recreation Guide/Instructor, Counsellor, Elected Government Representative, Trainer, Communications Professional, Interpreter, Workplace Relations Adviser, Early Childhood Teacher, Teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Primary School Teacher, Kaiwhakaako Māori, Translator, Nanny/Child Carer, Tertiary Lecturer, Private Teacher/Tutor, Youth Worker, Secondary School Teacher, Teacher Aide, Tour Guide
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery-1B8
-Pens + Highlighters
- Laptop/ Device